Gillespie County Fair
Fredericksburg, Texas

When: mid to late August [click for this year's dates]

Where: Two miles south of Fredericksburg at 530 Fair Drive on Highway 16.

Since 1888 folks have flocked to the Texas Hill Country town of Fredericksburg not only to browse among the memory-making merchandise at various antique stores or book a B&B, but also to take part in a four-day event that has long been a family favorite-- the Gillespie County Fair.

Although the fairground gates open the previous day for carnival and midway fun, the blast of a conductor's whistle and the beat of a marching band harkens the official start of the fair as families line Main Street to watch a procession of floats file past in a parade. Waving to the crowd, last year's recipient of a rhinestone tiara relinquishes her title as Gillespie County Fair queen to her successor during a contest held later that evening, to be followed by a street dance.

It's a sure bet that spectators will have a good time at the parimutuel horse races. The thundering hooves of thoroughbreds and quarter horses match the racing heart beats of equine enthusiasts as they cheer on their preferred jockey to victory at The Race Barn, which is conveniently located at the fair's entrance. Sports fans can also make a wager on the outcome of national horse and greyhound races from the comfort of the air-conditioned venue, which features simulcast events from tracks around the nation.

Attendees can also check out livestock and agricultural exhibits before going in search of a souvenir among the many arts and crafts booths.

For more information

• visit www.gillespiefair.com